The efficiency of your heating and air conditioning system can be hampered by any number of ductwork obstructions. If your system isn’t providing the same amount of heat or cooling that you’re used to or seems to be running longer to achieve results, you may have one of the following issues inside the ducts:

Blower fan obstructions can reduce the efficiency of a system. If dirt is caked on the blower motor or the fan blades, it can reduce the airflow into and out of the system.

Crushed transits are another major concern. If your flue pipe is compromised or the wallboard has been damaged, it can result in a tighter passage for air to go through. This makes it harder for air to reach the ends of the system.

Dirty air filters are the number one source of airflow obstruction. Clogged filters reduce the ability of your HVAC system to condition and distribute air. They also can allow dust and debris to be drawn into the blower motor.

Dirty return vents keep air from being recycled into the home. They can be blocked by furniture or dust. Either way, they put stress on the system by making it harder for the blower motor to bring in air.

Flex duct collapses can stop airflow. This can cause a backup in the system while also preventing air from reaching any area past the duct.

Leaky ducts are common in systems that were installed before the 1990s. Some of the conditioned air can leak out into the areas between the walls or in the attic.

Loose insulation might fall into the duct system and catch on the interior. A build-up could compromise air movement.

Obstructed zone dampers that are stuck in the closed position can prevent entire areas of a building from being heated or cooled. If a damper is stuck open, it can lead to the heating or cooling of an area that does not need it.

Sticky fire dampers also can be stuck in the closed position.

At Pipe Works Services, we’ve been serving northern New Jersey since 1988. Call us for more information on possible ductwork obstructions.

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